dates and times

** DATES and TIMES ** for 2024 - 2025

All of our '24 - '25 Junior Cotillion events are held at the Shenandoah Club.

* dinner *  for our second year and older students only  THURSDAY 12/19/24  6:30 - 8:30PM

class #4         1/24/25       Friday night 6:30 - 8PM 

class #5         2/28/25       Friday night 6:30 - 8PM  

* Spring Ball *            one night in March 2025 TBD 6:30-8:30PM  

Watch here for makeup dates, as needed 

2024-25 SENIOR ASSISTANTS: 

Emily Ngyuen, Northside High School, senior

Michelle Ochoa, Northside High School, senior 

2024-25 JUNIOR ASSISTANTS:

Lily Lenkowski, North Cross School

     Lydia, Cave Spring High School

Olivia, Cave Spring Middle

Abigail, home school

Purpose: To ensure the safety of students while learning to dance at Cotillion, all students must wear closed-toe shoes.

Acceptable types of shoes include low-heeled boots.

The following types of footwear are strictly prohibited:

• Flip flops
• Crocs
• Sandals
• High Heels
• Platform shoes

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure their footwear meets the requirements.

August 2024

This year in cotillion we'll focus more on  "Manners in Public"

ps. and what is on MY bookshelf this summer?  

See you in September!

Summer Reading:

What books are on my bookshelves, you ask?  Well, this one is particularly good:  "Hold On to Your Kids" 

dress for success!

Dressing With Style And Confidence

As middle schoolers navigate their way through the exciting and transformative years of adolescence, one aspect that often takes center stage is fashion. Dressing age-appropriately not only allows them to express their personal style but also helps build confidence and respect for themselves and others. In this post, we will explore some tips and ideas for middle school age-appropriate dress, ensuring a balance.

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Comfort:

Middle school is a time for self-discovery, and it's important for students to feel comfortable in their clothing choices. Encourage them to embrace their individuality by choosing styles and colors that reflect their personality. Whether it's a graphic tee paired with jeans or a funky patterned dress, let them express themselves. 

Neatness:

It's essential to consider appropriate lengths and to ensure that clothing is neat and well-maintained, to present a polished appearance.  Middle school is a time for self-expression but students should also be mindful of their choices, opting for collared shirts for a more put-together look.

Dressing Up for Special Occasions:

As middle schoolers attend events such as dances or formal gatherings, it's important to guide them in choosing age-appropriate attire. For boys, a well-fitted suit or dress pants paired with a button-down shirt and tie can create a dashing look. Girls can opt for knee-length dresses or skirts and might try to avoid overly mature styles.

Encourage middle schoolers to choose footwear that is both stylish and comfortable. Sneakers, flats, or low-heeled shoes are suitable options that allow for easy movement. When it comes to accessories, less is often more. Encourage them to choose one or two simple accessories that complement their outfit without overwhelming it.

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By encouraging students to embrace their individuality while still adhering to social norms, we can help them develop a sense of style and confidence.  Fashion is a journey of self-discovery, and it's important to support and guide them along the way.

party planning

There is some really good info here:

https://porch.com/advice/party-safety-tips

Do Manners Matter in Business Q&A

My spouse brought this one to my attention:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/laurambrown/2019/05/14/do-manners-matter-in-business-qa-with-business-etiquette-expert-rosanne-j-thomas/?sh=4ce1bd3e5dcf

Spring Ball - March

Spring Ball:

Students and chaperones are encouraged to dress their very best and come out and have fun at the dance! Attire is semi-formal with black tie optional.   Please give your children dinner at home before the ball.  

Formal table setting

Forks, bread&butter plate on the LEFT

Knives, spoons, and water goblet on the RIGHT

Remember:  B - M - W   ( bread - meal - water )